Shinjuku - redevelopment and foreign tourists : May 29, 2025

I walked around Shinjuku area in a while. I found two major changes –- redevelopments of the area and increasing number of foreign tourists.

 

 

Many urban redevelopment projects – including a plan in Shinjuku -- are under way in Tokyo.

  The Odakyu Department Store building that stood above JR Shinjuku Station was demolished in 2022, and a new building is planned to be constructed by 2029. (See also the 2nd photo)

  

Redevelopment is also taking place around the station. Cranes are lining up all over the place. (See the top photo)

 

Some works are in progress inside the station. Some passageways and gates are closed and tentative ones are set. I found it difficult to find transfers in some places, and staff were directing directions.

 

The Alta building at the east exit of Shinjuku Station had a large display on the wall and was known as a cultural hub. This building was close in February 2025, and demolition work has begun. Redevelopment plans are under consideration. (The Alta building photo in 2021)

 

The number of foreign tourists to Japan is increasing. It reached a record high of 36.86 million people in 2024, and it is expected to exceed 40 million people in 2025.

  Foreign tourists were noticeable in Shinjuku as well.

 

The street in front of Toho Cinemas in Kabukicho was overflowing with foreign tourists. A guide was explaining things to group tourists, such as the Godzilla statue. (Se also the 3rd photo)

 

It seemed like there were more foreign tourists than Japanese people stopping at the east exit.

  The scenery in Shinjuku is changing every year.